International and U.K. trade bodies have issued positive statements following the announcement by Google that it would introduce four changes to help deter piracy. The ‘Making Copyright Work Better Online’ measures include preventing terms “closely associated” with piracy from appearing in the Autocomplete feature during search queries. But the biz clearly wants Google to go further.
Here’s the reaction:
Frances Moore, chief executive of IFPI: “Google’s announcement is a very positive step in helping tackle the huge problem of online piracy in order to grow the legitimate music business. Google and other intermediaries have a pivotal role in creating an online environment where the rights of artists and creators are respected and effectively enforced. We look forward to seeing the concrete actions that will result from this welcome announcement.”
Feargal Sharkey, chief executive of umbrella trade body U.K. Music: “It is in everyone’s long term interest that the world’s biggest search engine directs music fans towards licensed digital services that pay our artists, entrepreneurs and investors. Today’s announcement from Google is an encouraging first step. We look forward to working with them to bring the very best of British music to the best music fans in the world.”
Geoff Taylor, chief executive of U.K. trade body the BPI: “It is encouraging that Google is beginning to respond to our calls to act more responsibly with regard to illegal content. However this package of measures, while welcome, still ignores the heart of the problem – that Google search overwhelmingly directs consumers looking for music and other digital entertainment to illegal sites. We call on Google to work actively with us to implement a technical solution that points music fans to sites that reward artists and everyone involved in creating music.”
The U.K. government was also quick to give its verdict.
Communications Minister Ed Vaizey: “I welcome these fresh measures to tackle online copyright infringement. They recognize the importance of consumers finding legitimate content. Infringement of copyright is not just a problem for creative industries, it harms the development of new and innovative ways for people to access content legitimately.
“That is why I recently held a roundtable to start a dialog with Internet service providers, Internet intermediaries such as Google and Yahoo and content providers. The group will meet again in the New Year to continue this dialogue. Industry needs to work together to make a difference and deliver a win for themselves and the consumer.”
